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The New Year is getting closer—that magical moment when you make promises to yourself about what 2015 will bring. Care to make a money resolution? You should, according to a new survey.

Of those who made a financial resolution last year, half say they feel better about their money now, according to research from Fidelity Investments. What's more, three-quarters of financial resolution makers realized at least 50% of their goal, and almost a third achieved their financial goal completely.

Need inspiration? How about starting the year with a January money diet? That’s what Eliza Cross, blogger at HappySimpleLiving.com, has done for the past six years. “I have always been a big New Year’s resolution and goal maker,” says Cross, who lives in Denver. “And one year I really wanted to start the New Year financially strong and try and work on developing some good habits.” In short, she takes a break from spending for 31 days. That means no takeout, no trips to the movies, and no frothy flavored lattes.

“It’s a radical month of not spending money on anything except the very barest essentials,” she says. “When I see how quickly money can accumulate when I’m not frittering it away on restaurant meals, impulse purchases and more stuff, it’s very exciting. The financial fast inspires me to be more thoughtful about how I spend money the other 11 months of the year.”

What will your New Year's resolution be this year? Hint: Make it about money. (Photo credit: Angle Six)

Want to try it? Here are Cross’s tips:

Look for free activities. Check out free days at local museums or art galleries, and visit a nearby library for free books and DVDs. “There are lots of ways to get culture during January without spending money,” Cross says.

Do a little meal planning. Use seasonal ingredients, which are cheaper than out-of-season fare. When you cook a meal, make a double batch and freeze half. And take advantage of your slow cooker, which can make a cheaper cut of meat tender after you cook it all day.